Each year the American University in Oslo, Norway gives our District one full-ride scholarship, including airfare, to attend the University in Oslo for a period of 6 weeks.We had several qualified applicants for this summer program, but finally chose Miss Alexandra (Alex) Dushok, who was proposed by Brian Germano of theLaGrange Rotary Club.The scholarship application process will begin soon, so watch the website at www.grsp.org> for more information.The deadline is always December 31.She writes the following:

During the summer of 2018, I had the opportunity to travel to Oslo, Norway, and study at the International Summer School thanks to the Rotary Club Scholarship. It was a life-changing experience for me, one that taught me about people from all over the world. On a daily basis, I got to interact with students from different countries and forge friendships that will last regardless of the borders and oceans between us. I will never forget how amazing it was to meet someone new from across the world each day. It was enlightening to learn about how they view the world and how they live their lives in a way that is different from my own experience. It was incredibly rewarding to take Norwegian classes, while using the language on a daily basis to communicate with those around me. During my time in Norway, I learned how truly beautiful and awe-inspiring nature could be, as well as how important it is to take care of the environment. Norway showed me that one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself is take time to relax and appreciate the natural world around you. I also learned how important it is to take time to listen closely, because there is so much to learn from the experiences of others. My friends from the International Summer School were incredibly kind to me, and I will never forget all of the lessons I have learned from simply getting to know them. I feel so blessed to have had the privilege of participating in this program, and feel so grateful to the Rotary Club for making this trip a possibility for me.

Here is my blog about my trip below, which has pictures and writing about different parts of my experience there:

https://adushok.wordpress.com